Do you hear reasonably well but feel you might be experiencing early signs of hearing loss? If you’re curious about hearing aid technology but are not ready to make the jump to prescription hearing aids, an over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aid might be an excellent option for you.
What Are OTC Hearing Aids?
OTC hearing aids are designed for adults with self-perceived mild hearing loss symptoms. Consumers can purchase OTC hearing aids in drugstores or online directly without a comprehensive hearing test or prescription from a hearing professional, such as an audiologist or hearing instrument specialist. OTC hearing aids provide an “entry-level” and more budget-friendly option for those interested in hearing technology and how it can benefit their life.
What is the Difference Between OTC and Prescription Hearing Aids?
OTC hearing aids are simplistic in design and offer a one-size-fits-most solution to mild hearing loss but are not recommended for more profound cases. They are a great introduction to hearing technology, and wearing an OTC device may help consumers better understand their own hearing needs. OTC hearing aids typically allow the consumer to adjust the physical fit of the device as well as make minor changes to the frequency and sound amplification settings but are more limited in style ranges and advanced features compared to their prescription counterparts. As mentioned above, consumers can purchase OTC hearing aids in-store or online, which is not the case for prescription devices.
Prescription hearing aids are more technologically advanced than OTC devices and are designed to treat various types of hearing loss, from mild to the most severe cases. A hearing evaluation from a healthcare professional is required, enabling them to make more personalized recommendations based on your specific needs. After a hearing aid is selected, your provider will fit your hearing aid to your ear anatomy and program the amplification and frequency settings to your unique needs. In the event you need any adjustments, your professional will be happy to schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure your devices are working properly.
The Bottom Line
Untreated hearing loss is not only a nuisance: it can seriously impact cognitive function later in life. Since they are more widely available, OTC hearing aids allow individuals with mild symptoms to get an early start on treatment. They also help people understand how drastically hearing loss affects their life. After seeing what an OTC hearing aid can do, individuals with hearing loss may be more inclined to seek a prescription should their symptoms progress.
